Freebie Feelers... Trials of the Blood Dragon

Freebie Feelers is a series where we download the free monthly console-specific or newly released free-to-play games to test their worth. This series will contain some useful information as well as plenty of personal opinion. While these articles may not be reviews, we hope that you will be able to use them to help decide whether that free download is worth it. 

What is it?

Best described as the love child of the games Trials Fusion and Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon, Trials of the Blood Dragon attempts to create a wholly new experience involving reinterpreted concepts from both its ‘parents’. Players will spend just as much time running and gunning as one of the game’s two protagonists in 2D action sections as they will negotiating a motorcycle through treacherous tracks. This sort of split gameplay works surprisingly well especially when the stage switches between the two at designated times. Sprinkle in an over-the-top story about Rex Power Colt’s (badass from Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon) kids, add in gadgets including a grappling hook, and you’ve got yourself a unique experience no matter what.

What did you think?

I thoroughly enjoyed this game. Although I found the crazy humor and new split gameplay to be endearing and interesting, I can also see why others may not like this title. Unfortunately due to the split nature of the game, it never feels like there’s quite enough of either game that inspired this title. For instance, the Trials sections never become as difficult (or as awesome to overcome) as the late game levels found in Fusion while the run and gun sections aren’t in the same style as the original Blood Dragon and feel completely different due to it. With that said, I personally adore this game simply for the innovation on display. I commend whoever had the courage to pitch this wacky game.

Is it worth downloading?

As a fan of Trials, you probably won’t find the thrill of completing an Extreme level here. As a fan of Far Cry, you’re even less likely to get your shooter fix from the linear and 2D levels found in this title. That’s not to say there isn’t a fun game here, but it can feel a bit bipolar if you aren’t ready to experience such a different type of game. Luckily for me, I find more in off-the-wall games like this than many of the most popular titles being played right now. So, if you’re ready to experience the intense side of Trials and the silly side of Blood Dragon, make sure you pick up Trials of the Blood Dragon during its run as March’s first Games with Gold title.